Solve the Euler Totient Puzzle: Find k such that phi(k+n)=0 mod 79

In summary, to find a number k such that phi(k) is 0 mod 79, we can choose 80 primes of the form 79n+1 and use the Chinese Remainder Theorem to find a solution 'k' for the system of 80 congruences. This will ensure that phi(k) is divisible by 79. However, it does not guarantee a solution for every odd prime n and further proof is needed.
  • #1
Gaussianheart
31
0
Let n=79
phi is Euler totient

Can you find a number k such as :

phi(k)=0 mod 79
phi(k+1)=0 mod 79
phi(k+2)=0 mod 79
phi(k+3)=0 mod 79
...
phi(k+78)=0 mod 79
phi(k+79)=0 mod 79

Good luck!
 
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  • #2
Since there are infinite primes in any[*] arithmetic sequence, I'd choose 80 primes, call them p0 to p79, of the form 79n+1.

Next, use the Chinese Remainder Theorem to find a solution 'k' of the system of 80 congruences [itex]k \equiv -n \pmod {p_n}[/itex] with n=0,1,2,...79.

It follows that p0 divides k, p1 divides k+1, ... and p79 divides k+79. Then each (pn-1) will divide each phi(k+n); and since all primes were a multiple of 79 plus 1, each phi(k+n) will be divisible by 79, as required.

--
Edit:
[*] Well, not any, but you get the idea.
 
Last edited:
  • #3
Dodo said:
Since there are infinite primes in any[*] arithmetic sequence, I'd choose 80 primes, call them p0 to p79, of the form 79n+1.

Next, use the Chinese Remainder Theorem to find a solution 'k' of the system of 80 congruences [itex]k \equiv -n \pmod {p_n}[/itex] with n=0,1,2,...79.

It follows that p0 divides k, p1 divides k+1, ... and p79 divides k+79. Then each (pn-1) will divide each phi(k+n); and since all primes were a multiple of 79 plus 1, each phi(k+n) will be divisible by 79, as required.

--
Edit:
[*] Well, not any, but you get the idea.

You are right.
Thanx for your solution.
Anyway it does not mean that it ALWAYS exists k for every n odd prime.
Proof is needed.
 

1. What is the Euler Totient Puzzle?

The Euler Totient Puzzle is a mathematical problem that involves finding a value for k in the equation phi(k+n)=0 mod 79. This equation is related to the Euler totient function, which calculates the number of positive integers less than or equal to a given number that are relatively prime to that number.

2. How is the value of k determined?

The value of k is determined by solving the equation phi(k+n)=0 mod 79. This can be done through a variety of methods, such as trial and error or using number theory techniques. The key is to find a value for k that satisfies the equation and also adheres to the properties of the Euler totient function.

3. What does the value of k represent?

The value of k in the equation phi(k+n)=0 mod 79 represents the number of positive integers less than or equal to k that are relatively prime to both k and 79. In other words, it is the value that makes the equation true and also follows the rules of the Euler totient function.

4. Why is solving this puzzle important?

Solving the Euler Totient Puzzle is important because it allows us to better understand the properties and relationships of the Euler totient function. It also has practical applications in number theory, cryptography, and other areas of mathematics.

5. Are there any known solutions to this puzzle?

Yes, there are known solutions to the Euler Totient Puzzle for specific values of n. For example, when n=1, the value of k is 78. However, there are also many values of n for which the solution is not yet known. This puzzle continues to be an area of research and discovery in the field of mathematics.

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